Somaliland Dismisses Somali Federal Government Criticism Over Israel Relations

Somaliland's regional administration issued a statement rejecting criticism from Somalia's federal government. The federal government had accused Somaliland of maintaining ties with Israel. Somaliland officials called the remarks unfounded and an intrusion into its foreign policy. They highlighted that Somaliland conducts its own diplomatic engagements independently. The dispute underscores longstanding tensions between the self-declared state and Mogadishu. Somalia does not recognize Somaliland's claim to independence. The issue may affect regional cooperation and aid negotiations. Observers will watch for any diplomatic moves in the Horn of Africa.